LANGUAGE DEVELOPMENT AT IT'S FINEST

This is a video of twin boys engaging in a conversation between each other. This video is a clear example of how children develop language. The toddlers are babbling sounds to each other and then responding. What is unusual at this age, is to see both toddlers engaging in "conversation" with each other. Typically, you will see toddlers having a one-sided conversation. Clearly though, these little boys are responding back and forth by pointing, stomping, laughing and babbling. It's adorable and pretty amazing!

TEACHING TO THE TEST

Numerous times throughout the year, I hear teachers complaining that all they do any more is "teach to the test". School districts are afraid of losing funding due to lowered test scores on the national standards. In turn, they are dropping valuable classes such as art, music etc. in order to allot more minutes to teach to the standards. Teacher work satisfaction in the United States is one of the lowest in the world.The average new teacher stays in their career field three years (Smith, 2010). The U.S. educational system, really needs to take a look at how other school systems around the world are operating. Studies have shown that it's the person who is emotionally stronger, not necessarily smarter that does better as an adult (Berger, 2009). Allowing children to explore all areas of their development through academics, the arts, music, physical education, would allow children to slow down and enjoy the learning process and develop a love a learning in many areas. Assessing the "whole-child" rather than just the academic standards, would show strengths in all children and show what areas each child could use some improvement. By assessing the "whole-child", every child could be proud of those areas where they are strong. rather than having to dwell on the the fact they are slow in math or reading etc.

Finland is one of the most literate countries in the world. They have followed a top-down school reform approach, nationally since the 60's. Students are allowed to attend any private or public school they choose, free of charge. Teachers are highly qualified and extremely respected by the entire community. The school system as a nation, promotes life-long learning. The assessments are conducted by the teacher and are used as an individual encouragement for the student's growth and learning progress.The upper levels receive no numerical grades and are given only one standardized test upon completion of their upper-level coursework. The teachers and administration make up the assessments, which can be both verbal and written. There is a shared purpose and a recognized vision across the country, of teaching and learning between teachers and students. Finland provides good schools for everyone. The classrooms are orderly and calm with very few behavioral issues. From the beginning, students are taught everyone is responsible for their own learning and with learning comes a better life and better economical situation. The teacher satisfaction is extremely high. Students enjoy school and strive to do their best.

Berger, K., S.,The Developing Person Through Childhood. Worth Publishers, 2009.

 http://www.schome.ac.uk/wiki/Education_system_in_Finland